A grand jury in New Mexico has indicted actor Timothy Busfield on multiple charges related to child sex abuse, as confirmed by officials on Friday. The charges brought against Busfield include four counts of criminal sexual contact with a child, according to a statement from the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s office.
Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman emphasized the principle of presumed innocence, stating, “As with all criminal proceedings, Mr. Busfield is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.” He noted that the case will proceed through the judicial system and is anticipated to advance to trial shortly. The case will be handled by the special victims unit of his office, although no further details have been disclosed at this stage.
Busfield’s attorney, Larry Stein, expressed that the indictment was anticipated, remarking, “As the saying goes, a grand jury will indict a ham sandwich.” Stein criticized the prosecution, asserting that it was based on a case lacking sufficient evidence to stand in court. He conveyed his confidence that Busfield would contest the charges at every phase and is eager to present his defense openly.
This latest development follows Busfield’s arrest less than a month ago on charges of child abuse and criminal sexual contact involving two young boys who had roles in the Fox series “The Cleaning Lady,” which Busfield both directed and acted in. Accusations allege inappropriate contact occurred on set between November 2022 and spring 2024.
Defense attorneys argue the allegations stem from a revenge plot orchestrated by the boys’ parents following their loss of roles on the show. During a recent detention hearing, Bernalillo County Deputy District Attorney Savannah Brandenburg-Koch described the children’s accounts to healthcare professionals as specific and credible, while defense witnesses, including the show’s director of photography, reported no observed inappropriate interactions.
Brandenburg-Koch also referenced previous allegations against Busfield from women and a teenager, casting a shadow over his defense. However, these earlier allegations have not resulted in criminal charges. Judge David A. Murphy presiding over the case indicated that he did not find these past accusations credible enough to influence the current proceedings and deemed Busfield not a threat to the community, allowing for his release on his own recognizance as he awaits trial.
This case underscores the ongoing conversation surrounding the protection of minors in entertainment and the complexities involved in allegations of this nature. The judicial process will now take center stage as both sides prepare for trial.